Birch Aquarium At Scripps Institution Of Oceanography La Jolla Ca
The Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography is located in La Jolla, California, and is part of the University of California, San Diego. The aquarium is open to the public and offers a variety of exhibits, programs, and events that showcase the wonders of the ocean.
History
The Birch Aquarium was founded in 1903 by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, which was established in 1903 by Ellen Browning Scripps. The aquarium was built in 1905 and was originally used to house marine specimens for research purposes. In the 1970s, the aquarium was opened to the public and has since become a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.
Exhibits
The Birch Aquarium has a variety of exhibits that showcase the diversity of marine life. One of the most popular exhibits is the Kelp Forest, which is a 70,000-gallon tank that replicates the underwater habitat of giant kelp. Other exhibits include the Hall of Fishes, where visitors can see a variety of fish species from around the world, and the Tide Pool Plaza, where visitors can touch and learn about marine creatures such as sea stars and urchins.
Programs
The Birch Aquarium offers a variety of programs and events for visitors of all ages. These include daily feedings and presentations, summer camps for children, and adult classes and workshops. The aquarium also offers outreach programs for schools and community groups, as well as special events such as birthday parties and weddings.
Research
The Birch Aquarium is part of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, which is one of the world's leading centers for ocean and earth science research. The aquarium's research programs focus on a variety of topics, including marine conservation, climate change, and ocean acidification. The aquarium also houses a collection of over 3,000 marine specimens that are used for scientific research and education.
Conclusion
The Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life and ocean conservation. With its diverse exhibits, educational programs, and research initiatives, the aquarium offers something for visitors of all ages and interests.
